Since 50% of all recordings are phase-inverted, and from one to the next you can't tell except by playing, I would say it does not really matter!!!!!
And since most refried/rechannelled/run through a gazillion master consols etc and have NO descernable phase anyway, why bother?
So for the few recordings that have the right phase, carefully handled from mic to recording, (which are "audiophile" and usually sound great, but usually have no real musical content) you can worry. Otherwise it is a crapshoot.
So, to be blunt: CAN YOU HEAR IT?? ANYWAY??
(I can tell sometimes and it does sound better to reverse the phase, but usually I cannot hear any difference)
(The difference I do hear plainly is as if the sound is originating "behind" the speakers in reverse phase, and in front or between with better bass control in correct phase.
So, burn me if I am wrong.... Flames anyone???
(Ahhh.. have you noticed I am in a 'difficult' mood?)